Seriously…what took you so long?
I’ve lived here for years, and one of my favorite things is showing people around the city. Nashville has changed a lot over the last decade, but it still has that welcoming Southern charm that makes people feel at home almost immediately.
Since this is your first visit, I put together the itinerary I always recommend to friends and family. If you only have a weekend, these are the experiences I’d want you to have before you head home.
The first thing we’re doing is heading to Lower Broadway.
Yes, it’s touristy. Yes, it’s busy. And yes—you absolutely have to experience it.
There’s something special about walking down Broadway for the first time. Every doorway has live music pouring into the street, rooftop bars are buzzing, and you’ll hear everything from classic country to rock and blues as you stroll from one venue to the next.
Don’t worry about finding the “perfect” bar. Wander. Walk into whichever place catches your ear. Some of the best performances I’ve ever seen happened completely by accident.
And before the night’s over? We’re grabbing some hot chicken. You can’t leave Nashville without trying it at least once.
After a good breakfast (trust me—you’ll need it), we’re heading to the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Even if country music isn’t your favorite genre, you’ll be surprised how fascinating it is. The stories, the history, and the incredible memorabilia make it one of the best museums in the city.
From there, let’s slow things down a bit.
We’ll head over to Centennial Park to see Nashville’s full-scale Parthenon. The first time I saw it, I couldn’t believe something like that existed in the middle of Tennessee. It’s peaceful, beautiful, and one of the most unique places in the city.
Take your time here. Walk the park. Sit for a while. Nashville isn’t just about the nightlife—it’s also a city that knows how to slow down.
As the sun starts to set, I’d take you to The Gulch or 12 South.
These neighborhoods have some of my favorite restaurants, local shops, and coffee spots. They’re a completely different vibe from Broadway and give you a chance to experience another side of Nashville.
After dinner?
Let’s head back downtown.
Broadway somehow feels completely different at night than it does during the day. The lights come alive, the music gets louder, and the whole city seems to come alive with it.
Before you head home, let’s grab brunch.
Nashville has become known for its food scene, and brunch is one tradition you shouldn’t skip.
If we have a little extra time afterward, we’ll wander through 12 South, stop by a local coffee shop, or take a peaceful walk along the Cumberland River before it’s time to head to the airport.
It’s the kind of slow morning that reminds you vacations don’t always have to be rushed.
Here’s what almost always happens.
You’ll leave thinking you saw everything…
Then someone asks, “Did you visit the Ryman? Did you tour the Belle Meade Historic Site? Did you go to Cheekwood? Did you spend any time in East Nashville?”
You’ll smile…
…and realize you’re already planning your next trip back.
That’s one of the things I love most about this city. No matter how many times I explore it, there’s always another restaurant to try, another neighborhood to wander, or another live performance waiting around the corner.
Local Tip: Broadway is exciting, but don’t spend your entire weekend there. Some of my favorite Nashville memories have come from wandering neighborhoods like 12 South, The Gulch, Germantown, and East Nashville. They each have their own personality—and they’re where you’ll discover the side of Nashville that locals love most.
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